Running a restaurant in the UK can involve a wide range of responsibilities, especially when serving food to the public. One of the most critical risks restaurants may face is the potential for food poisoning or allergic reactions. Claims of this nature can be serious and could result in legal and financial challenges for the business.

Understanding whether restaurant insurance can offer protection against food-related claims is essential for owners looking to protect their premises, their customers, and their reputation.

The Role of Public Liability Insurance in Food-Related Claims

Public Liability Insurance can provide protection if a member of the public suffers injury or property damage in connection with the restaurant’s activities. This type of insurance is commonly included in restaurant insurance packages and can cover incidents that occur on the restaurant’s premises.

How Public Liability May Apply

If a customer suffers a slip, trip, or fall within the restaurant, a claim may be made under Public Liability Insurance. However, when it comes to food poisoning or allergic reactions, public liability alone may not fully address the risks, as these claims often relate to the products served.

Product Liability Insurance and Food Claims

Product Liability Insurance can offer protection if a customer claims injury or illness as a result of consuming food or drink served by the restaurant.

Food Poisoning Claims

If a customer suffers food poisoning after eating a meal, they may seek compensation for medical costs, lost income, or personal suffering. Product Liability Insurance can help cover legal costs and compensation payments in the event of a successful claim.

Allergic Reaction Claims

Allergic reactions can occur if food contains undisclosed allergens or if cross-contamination happens in the kitchen. Restaurants are legally required to provide accurate allergen information, but mistakes can occur. Product Liability Insurance can offer financial protection for such claims, depending on the terms of the policy.

Key Policy Considerations for Food-Related Cover

When exploring whether restaurant insurance covers food poisoning and allergies, it is important to carefully review the policy wording and cover limits.

1. Public Liability and Product Liability Limits

It can be beneficial to check whether both public and product liability are included in the policy and whether the cover limits are sufficient for the size of the restaurant and its customer volume.

2. Allergen Management and Policy Exclusions

Some policies may include specific conditions related to allergen management. Businesses may wish to confirm:

• Whether cover is affected if allergen information is not displayed correctly
• If claims arising from incorrect food labelling are excluded
• Whether cross-contamination is covered

3. Staff Training and Record-Keeping

Restaurants may need to demonstrate that appropriate allergen control processes are in place and that staff have been trained on food safety. Some insurers may request evidence of these procedures when handling a claim.

How to Strengthen Protection for Food Claims

While Product Liability Insurance can offer valuable cover, it is not a substitute for effective food safety and allergen management.

Steps restaurants can take to help minimise risks include:

• Regularly reviewing allergen labelling and menu accuracy
• Implementing strict kitchen hygiene and cross-contamination controls
• Keeping detailed records of supplier information and food preparation processes

Working with brokers may help businesses arrange policies that align with their risk profile and can assist in identifying whether additional cover is advisable.

Essential Takeaways for Restaurant Owners

Restaurant insurance in the UK can offer important protection for businesses serving food to the public. Public Liability Insurance and Product Liability Insurance can help protect restaurants against claims linked to food poisoning and allergic reactions, though the scope of cover can depend on the specific policy.

Carefully reviewing policy terms, understanding potential exclusions, and ensuring food safety procedures are robust can help support the restaurant in managing these risks effectively.